Day of Valor

What Is Day of Valor?

Day of Valor, officially known as Araw ng Kagitingan, is a national public holiday observed in the Philippines on 9 April each year. It serves as a day of remembrance for the courage and sacrifices of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II. The holiday primarily commemorates the Fall of Bataan in 1942 and the subsequent Bataan Death March.

This observance honours the valor of those who defended the Philippines against the invading Japanese forces. It underscores significant events in Philippine history, acknowledging the profound impact of the war on the nation. The Day of Valor reinforces a collective memory of heroism and resilience among the Filipino people.

History and Origins of Day of Valor

The historical roots of the Day of Valor trace back to the onset of World War II in the Pacific. After the Japanese invasion of the Philippines in December 1941, Filipino and American forces, under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, were compelled to retreat to the Bataan Peninsula. This strategic withdrawal was intended to buy time for Allied forces elsewhere.

For over three months, the Allied forces, though outnumbered and undersupplied, mounted a fierce defence against the Japanese siege in Bataan. The defence was crucial in delaying the Japanese war timetable in Southeast Asia. However, faced with starvation, disease, and overwhelming enemy pressure, the Allied forces in Bataan, numbering approximately 76,000 Filipino and American soldiers, surrendered on 9 April 1942.

Following the surrender, these prisoners of war were forced to endure the infamous Bataan Death March. They were compelled to walk over 100 kilometres from Mariveles, Bataan, to Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac, under brutal conditions. Thousands perished from starvation, dehydration, disease, and physical abuse during this forced march. The fall of Bataan was followed by the surrender of Corregidor a month later.

Initially, Republic Act No. 3022, enacted in 1961, declared April 9 as “Bataan Day” a regular public holiday. In 1980, Presidential Proclamation No. 2035 expanded its scope, changing the name to “Araw ng Kagitingan (Bataan and Corregidor Day)” to include the defence of Corregidor. Later, its designation was simplified to “Araw ng Kagitingan” or “Day of Valor” to encompass the heroism of all Filipinos who fought during World War II and in other conflicts.

How Day of Valor Is Celebrated

Day of Valor is marked by solemn ceremonies and commemorative events across the Philippines. The central observance takes place at the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) on Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan. This towering memorial complex honours the joint forces who defended the peninsula.

Official ceremonies typically include wreath-laying activities, flag-raising ceremonies, and military honours. High-ranking government officials, military leaders, and representatives from veterans’ organisations attend these events. Speeches are delivered to recount the historical significance of the day and to acknowledge the sacrifices made by the soldiers.

Educational institutions often organise programmes and discussions to inform students about the events of World War II in the Philippines. Media outlets broadcast documentaries and feature stories of surviving veterans, ensuring that the younger generations understand the historical context and the importance of national defence. While it is a day of remembrance, it is also a public holiday, allowing families to spend time together, often in reflective capacities or visiting historical sites.

When Is Day of Valor?

The Day of Valor is observed annually on 9 April. This date is fixed according to the Gregorian calendar, commemorating the day the Allied forces in Bataan surrendered to the Japanese in 1942. As a regular national public holiday in the Philippines, government offices, schools, and many private businesses are closed. There are no variable dates for its observance.

Day of Valor Key Facts